This week saw the unveiling of plans by SIT to develop five purpose-built campuses across Singapore, two of which would consolidate Newcastle University’s presence in Singapore and provide a new multi-million pound learning environment for its 360 undergraduate and post graduate students.

Set to open in 2014, the two new SIT buildings will be sited within the grounds of Ngee Ann Polytechnic and Nanyang Polytechnic. The buildings will feature spaces sculpted using glass and steel to let in more light and create a more open feel. There will be large common spaces for students, elevated activity decks and large courtyards. The buildings will also feature measures to improve the environment, such as natural ventilation to aid air circulation, as well as shaded areas and verandhas.

Professor Ella Ritchie OBE, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Newcastle University said: 'This is an exciting development by SIT which will make our campuses even more appealing and pleasant spaces. All our operations will now be based in two new buildings fit for the 21st Century.

'Newcastle University already has a major presence internationally, with successful operations now in Singapore and the first UK University to establish a medical campus overseas in Malaysia. We want to develop this to further our strategic global links.'